Why Label Makers Are the Perfect Secret Weapon for Crafters

Label makers — those little gadgets that crank out sticky strips of text — have turned into a craze that extends far beyond just organizing your filing cabinet.

The printer company Brother calls them “the new glue gun” in the crafting world. And while they may be a little biased (they manufacture label makers after all) there’s no denying the trend is heating up. The creative organizing geniuses around the web continue to come up with new and novel ways to put this tool to good use. You can pick up a Brother P-Touch PT-D200 model for $26 or maybe try a highly rated DYMO for $15.99.

Of course, you can use the gadgets to help you get organized for 2015: From file cabinets to spice racks to closet clutter, putting a label on things can really help set you straight. Sure you could do it with a Post-It and a Sharpie, but it’s just not the same.

Once you’ve got the big stuff organized, it’s time to have a little fun.

DIY Label Maker Magnets

Photo: Brother via Imgur

Materials:

Label maker

Pro Mag Magnetic Tape (.5” X 25”)

How To:

- Select desired font, frames, and pictures using the label maker.

- Type the word you would like on the magnet and print.

- Peel off the backing on both the label and the magnet and stick label on the magnet strip.

- Cut magnet to desired length.

DIY Label Maker Pinecone Place Card 

Photo; Brother via Imgur

Materials:

Pinecones (check for flatter bottoms so they stand up)

Label maker and tape

Craft paper or cards

Decorative paper clips

How to:

- Select desired font, frames, and pictures using the label maker.

- Type guest name you would like to appear on the place setting card and print.

- Cut craft paper or cards into desired shape and size.

- Stick label onto desired card or paper.

- Using the paper clip attach the card to the top of the pinecone.

Label makers come in different makes and models, and if you can get your hands on a vintage one, you can create that great embossed effect as well. Here is a little extra inspiration for you.

Napkin Ring 

Photo: My Dream Canvas

Put a ring on it…a napkin ring that is. A little name tag label goes a long way to letting your guests know where they’ll be enjoying their evening.

Cheese Board Labels

Photo: Brother via Imgur

You don’t want to spend the whole evening telling and re-telling your guests which cheese is which. Time to get out your label maker.

Ornament Ribbon Labels

Photo: Homemaking Hacks

You can get a label maker that prints on ribbon, which is perfect for gift wrap as well as ornament hanging. File this idea away in a folder labeled “2015 holiday crafts.”

Label Maker Artwork

Photo: Wit and Whistle

A little DIY gallery art is easy to achieve with a vintage label maker.

Label Maker Valentine

Photo: Confetti Sunshine

If you’re on a constant search for new ways to tell your special someone you love ‘em, this label maker valentine should be on your list.

Plant Marker Labels

Photo: Homemaking Hacks

Never mistake parsley for cilantro again!

Good Old Address Labels

Photo: Brother via Imgur

An oldie but a goodie - next year, don’t write out your address on every single card. Just label them.

"Getting Organized with a New Baby" Label

Photo: Reddit

Hey, being a new parent is overwhelming. A little reminder might help during a 3 a.m. diaper change!